CVE-2010-3867 Scanner

ProFTPD is a highly configurable FTP server that supports a range of platforms and serves a wide array of clients worldwide. It is used by system administrators and organizations requiring secure file transfer solutions. The software is widely adopted in environments demanding reliable, efficient file transfers, like web hosting and large data exchanges. Organizations prefer ProFTPD for its customization capabilities, allowing it to meet diverse operational requirements. Furthermore, its open-source nature encourages community contributions, fostering a robust ecosystem. However, like any software, it requires regular security audits to ensure vulnerabilities do not compromise its secure operations.

The Directory Traversal vulnerability in ProFTPD versions before 1.3.3c allows attackers to exploit crafted input via certain FTP commands. This vulnerability primarily affects the mod_site_misc module, enabling unauthorized users to traverse system directories. Such traversal can lead to unauthorized access or overwrite of arbitrary files. Attackers can manipulate commands like SITE MKDIR to achieve this, posing substantial security risks. This flaw underlines the importance of regular updates and patches for enterprise systems. Ensuring all components are up to date is a critical defense against such vulnerabilities.

The vulnerability originates from improperly sanitized inputs that allow unauthorized directory traversal operations. Crafted inputs through commands like SITE MKDIR manipulate the FTP server's response to directory paths. This flaw manifests due to insufficient validation of path inputs, which attackers can exploit to access or overwrite files outside intended directories. This technical oversight can allow malicious actors to disrupt service integrity or gain unauthorized control over system resources. Therefore, maintaining strict input validation and path-checking mechanisms is paramount in FTP and file handling services.

If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to severe consequences for affected systems. Attackers can access sensitive files, potentially resulting in data breaches or service disruptions. Moreover, they might overwrite critical system files, causing denial of service and requiring extensive restoration efforts. Such exploits can disrupt business operations and incur financial and reputational damage. Therefore, organizations must prioritize vulnerability management and patch deployment to prevent exploitation. Effective monitoring and response strategies are essential to mitigate potential impacts.

REFERENCES

• http://bugs.proftpd.org/show_bug.cgi?id=3519
• http://lists.fedoraproject.org/pipermail/package-announce/2010-November/050687.html
• http://lists.fedoraproject.org/pipermail/package-announce/2010-November/050703.html
• http://lists.fedoraproject.org/pipermail/package-announce/2010-November/050726.html
• http://slackware.com/security/viewer.php?l=slackware-security&y=2010&m=slackware-security.498209